THE CONSTRUCTION of the Hervey Bay City Centre community hub, a key project of the Hinkler Regional Deal, has advanced with the start of excavation for the basement car park. This $108.7 million initiative, supported by $40 million from the Australian Government and additional funds from Fraser Coast Regional Council, is progressing well under the guidance of national construction firm Hansen Yuncken.
Hansen Yuncken has engaged twelve local businesses, with the latest contracts awarded to Wide Bay Scaffolding, Meales Wide Bay Concrete Pumping, Wide Bay Crane Hire, and Neumann Steel. These new engagements, valued at over $3 million, complement previous local contracts worth over $12 million, providing a significant economic boost to the Fraser Coast region.
Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain, emphasised the project's impact, stating, “Regional communities deserve high-quality community infrastructure and multi-purpose spaces that can bring them together, which is why we’re partnering with Fraser Coast Regional Council and injecting $40 million towards this transformative project. This hub will have a huge impact in Hervey Bay – and it’s fantastic to see local contractors front and centre of this work.”
The hub, located at Main Street and Torquay Road in Pialba, will feature a Disaster Resilience Centre, a two-level expanded library, a public plaza, and flexible meeting and event spaces. More than 75% of the development will be community space, serving as a central point for learning, social interaction, and accessing council services.
The project, including the creation of foundation and basement wall piles, is currently focused on excavating the basement car park, which will provide 68 spaces. Additionally, the council is extending nearby parking and exploring more on-street parking options. Completion is slated for mid-2026.
Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Denis Chapman encouraged local business involvement, stating, “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the city centre, create jobs and drive business investment. Local businesses wanting to get involved are encouraged to contact Hansen Yuncken.”
For more information, visit https://frasercoast.engagementhub.com.au/hervey-bay-library-administration-centre-inc-disaster-resilience-centre.
